Hi. This is my first VW, and I am new to this forum. I figured the best way to check this site out and meet people is to introduce my self and my bus as the project progresses. I decided to go with a bus for my first VW, Ive always wanted one. Rather than buy a bus already in good condition I decided to go with one that was more of a project. I like wrenching on things and it is a large part of wh I wanted one. I also feel that I will have a better undertanding of the air cooled engine if I just dig into it and DIY.
The bus I started with is a 1977 Riviera 2.0 that I picked up for $1500.00 I beleive that it was sitting for about a year before I bought it, 2 weeks ago. it was non running, 2 flat tires, and black from sitting under a tree. There was minor surface rust and the usual battery tray rust. The bus was manufactured in Germany not Brazil...bonus. The battery tray was really the only place that is going to require and welding, possibly some worm holes under the front window but I havent got there yet. The tent is in almost perfect condition and there is no signs of water damage in the ceiling tent area.
My goal with this bus is to restore the exterior to original look same OG orange and restore the interior although possibly mod it a bit. My goal is to do as much as possible myself.
I started by pressure washing the black off, then took a wire brush to all of the front floor board rust and the rust in the under seat areas folowed by rust stop primer.
In the engine so far (first 2 weeks)
1. replaced the temp II sensor
2. replaced all of the air hoses
3. new points, and plugs
4. Oil change
5. new fuel filter (cut it open no signs of rust chips)
6. New alternator/new battery
7. adjusted clutch
8. new tires
after messing with the alternator and battery and tracing charging problems (wouldnt hold a charge) i ended up finding a loose wire to the alternator, this fixed that problem. The old alternator was dead had it tested so the loose wire was in addition or got knocked loose during every thing.
I beleive that the reason the bus would not run was multiple air leaks, and a bad temp II sensor.
Thats where I am now I will be working on this rigorously time and funds permitting. Next task is to get the heater working and pass DEQ :P I'll add to this as it progresses. I am definitely looking for advice, opinions, and critique as it moves along.
Here are some pics during the process. Glad to find a site of local people. Cheers!
It's not much but I am pumped to finnally own a VW bus. look forward to talking to you guys.
Thanks,
Tom.
